According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, one quarter of children with spinal curves require medical attention. The decision on which treatment is appropriate is normally based on:
- magnitude of the curve
- gender and age of the child
- probability of curve progression
%
25% of individuals with scoliosis require medical attention.*
types of treatments
observation:
- when curve is less than 25 degrees
- most spinal curves remain small and are observed by an orthopedist every four to six months during growth
- in some cases, families seek more active treatment at this stage
bracing:
- when curve is more than 25 degrees
- curves that progress require that the child wear a back brace that helps support the spine and prevent progression while he or she is still growing
surgery:
- when curve is more than 50 degrees
- if a brace is insufficient, spinal fusion surgery is recommended to help straighten the spine and prevent further progression
* American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Available online at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/connect/psa.htm.
